Mercia Group's Podcast

In our latest episode, our in-house VAT expert, James Hurst, shares some brief thoughts on recent VAT cases that caught his eye.For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

Mark Morton breaks down the government's abrupt reversal on winter fuel payments and the tangled tax mechanics that follow. From pensioners navigating deductions to the complexities of taxable income, he asks—does anyone in power truly understand self-assessment? A sharp, insightful take on yet another policy puzzle.For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

In this episode, Gemma Archer rounds up the key points from the publication of Charities SORP exposure draft and consultations relating to the financial thresholds in charity law.For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

Helen Knight examines the implications of the upcoming changes to company size thresholds, effective April 2025, on off-payroll working and IR35 rules.Gain a deeper understanding of IR35 with our IR35: The Definitive Guide course. Stay ahead of key regulatory updates and keep your clients informed with insights from our latest newsletter. For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

In the aftermath of the Spring Statement, a number of consultations have been released on the government website. Mark Morton delves into the Making Tax Digital Consultation and how this could potentially impact accountants over the next few years. For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

In this short episode, join Mark Morton as he reflects on the Spring Statement delivered by Chancellor Rachel Reeves today (25 March 2025).Don't forget there is still time to order your Spring Statement Summary to easily communicate the key announcements to your clients.For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

Mark Morton takes a look at the proposed IHT changes for pensions from April 2027.Communicate tax changes easily with expert content that makes a difference to your clients. Spring Statement - https://www.mercia-group.com/promote/all-promote-products/budget-and-tax-rates/spring-statement-2025/ Tax Cards - https://www.mercia-group.com/promote/all-promote-products/budget-and-tax-rates/tax-cards-and-rates/ For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

Mark Morton takes a look at the current position on changes to APR and BPR. Communicate essential tax rates to your clients this spring with Mercia.Order personalised Tax Cards for your firm now.For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

Jenny Faulkner and Gemma Archer discuss the FRC's 2025 campaign to support UK SMEs and how the market study presents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for firms to have their say and impact the future of the audit profession from an SME perspective.For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

Mark Morton takes a look at possible changes to ISAs in the run-up to the Spring Statement.Order your Spring Communication essentials and communicate tax updates to your clients with ease.For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

Mark Morton reviews the recent issues relating to employment status ahead of our Spring Tax Update courses. For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

Communicate essential tax updates to your clients with Mercia this spring. Click Spring Statement and Tax Cards for more information.For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

Mark Morton discusses the recent issues relating to travel and subsistence ahead of our Tax Update courses this Spring.For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

James Hurst explores HMRC's recent communication to smaller charities regarding VAT claims. Are some organisations inadvertently claiming too much?With real-life case studies and tribunal cases, James will break down these issues at the upcoming Mercia Charities Conference. Book your place todayFor more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

Mark Morton discusses the recent issues affecting state pensions, ahead of our Spring Tax Update courses starting in March 2025. For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

Mark Morton discusses the recent developments in R&D, ahead of our Tax Update and R&D courses this Spring.URLS for further information:Tax Update - What's New for Spring 2025Research and Development - The Definitive GuideFor more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

Helen Knight examines some of the risks of technology recently covered in the media and some of the opportunities AI can provide.For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

Helen Knight summarises HMRC's most recent agent updates in advance of tax filing deadlines and upcoming changes.For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

Lee Eagling and Danny Noon discuss the recently published legislation which will change company size thresholds in April 2025 and the factors both entities and practitioners should be considering.For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

Joanne Gregory, a Senior Manager in Mercia's A&A and Compliance team, joins Shez Hamill from Caseware to discuss the latest trends in the accounting and auditing space.Delving into the evolution of the profession, from traditional paper-based methods to the adoption of cloud technology and AI, the podcast covers market consolidation, regulatory changes, and the increasing importance of data analytics and sustainability assurance reporting. They also explore how firms can stay compliant with evolving standards and the role of AI in driving efficiency and quality in audits. For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

James shares his personal thoughts regarding the complexity of the new regime, especially for smaller private schools getting to grips with VAT for the first time.For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

James Hurst looks beyond the big news headlines on how to keep up to date on VAT.  For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

Listen to Mark Morton in our latest podcast as he discusses the continued focus of HMRC on the provision of staff benefits.He lightly touches on the importance of getting the reporting correct for tax relief, changes to the treatment for Double Cab Pick Ups following Autumn Budget 2024 and the mandatory payrolling of benefits.For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

Our tax experts Pat Nown and Norman Allison discuss some of the main announcements from the Autumn Budget on 30 October 2024 and provide their thoughts on the key issues for taxpayers. Topics include the critical capital tax changes, the impact on employers and the double cab pick up double-U turn.For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

In this short episode join Mark Morton as he reflects on the Autumn Budget announcement delivered by Chancellor Rachel Reeves today (30 October).Don't forget there is still time to order your Autumn Budget Summary to make communicating this historic Budget easy for your clients.For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

The ICAEW has made changes to the UK Audit Regulations which includes changes to the eligibility criteria. These changes impact audit firms and may result in a loss of their audit registration. In this podcast, Joanne Gregory outlines what has changed, how it affects audit firms and what audit firms must to do in order to retain their audit registration and by when.For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

Ahead of the Budget on 30 October 2024, Nicola Holcombe takes a look at what some of the professional membership bodies and other groups are requesting from the Government. Topics include changes to incorporation relief, tax simplification and business rates reform.For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

James Hurst discusses the government's introduction of VAT on private school fees following the release of guidance on 10 October 2024 and in advance of the expected release of legislation following the Autumn Budget on 30 October 2024.For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

Lynn Radose, Mercia's Product Director and Pete McGrath, Head of Marketing discuss Mercia's shift to digital, on-demand, and bite-sized training programmes, responding to client needs and AI in learning. They also explore pathways to help clients navigate Mercia's extensive training offerings.For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

Helen Knight looks at some of the potential changes Rachel Reeves might announce at the Autumn Budget on 30 October 2024.For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

In this episode, Mark Morton discusses recent changes to furnished holiday lets and the Allocation of Tips Act.For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

Ross Haydock from Mercia and Jose Hopkins from Simply Climate informally discuss new developments in ESG and sustainability reporting, as well as the exciting emerging opportunities in this area. For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

In this episode, join host Helen Knight as she delves into the results of the recent UK election. Helen breaks down the key outcomes, significant shifts in voter sentiment, and the impact on the political landscape. For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

In this episode, Louise Connor highlights the evolution of workplace wellbeing, defines its key components, and provides practical strategies for managing pressure and stress. Discover insights on fostering a supportive work culture and maintaining a healthy, productive environment.For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

In this episode, Pat Nown discusses hot topics in the world of tax, including HICBC, FHL, and Year-End Benefit Reminders.For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

In this episode, Mark Morton discusses pension contributions and auto enrolment.For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

James Hurst explores recent VAT tribunal cases concerning the VAT treatment of food products and considers whether the law could be changed to reduce uncertainty in this area. For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

Helen Knight and James Hurst discuss the releases from Tax Administration and Maintenance Day on 18 April 2024 particularly the consultation launched around the VAT treatment of private hire vehicle fares. For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

Lee Eagling, Jenny Faulkner, and Zain Talaat discuss the emergence of technology in the profession, and how technology can benefit firms of all sizes. For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

Lee Eagling and Gavin Leake discuss the importance of ethics in the accountancy profession and the issues and dilemmas those in the profession may face.   CLICK HERE for our upcoming Ethics course.  For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

Join Mark Morton for a brief yet crucial update as he reveals HMRC's latest decision to halt the closure of its phone lines.For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

In this episode, Mark Morton discusses how the HMRC is encouraging customers to interact online with changes to its Self-Assessment, PAYE and VAT services.For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

In this episode, Louise Conner talks about her own experience using emotional intelligence (EQ) to navigate emotions. She also shares practical tips on developing your EQ, helping you understand and manage your own feelings as well as those of others.For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

In this episode, Pat Nown and Mark Morton unpack the key Spring Budget announcements. Gain valuable insights as they analyse fiscal developments and discuss the budget's impact on various sectors. Whether you're a finance enthusiast or seeking a concise overview, this conversation goes beyond the headlines, offering a quick yet comprehensive understanding of the current economic landscape.For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

In this short episode join Mark Morton as he reflects on the Spring Budget announcement delivered by Chancellor Jeremy Hunt today (6 March). Don't forget to register for Mercia's Rapid Reaction Webinar on (7 March) and listen to Pat Nown review the announcements made and consider any immediate implications and actions for your clients. For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

Considers the changes to the regime that the Government has implemented over the last 12 months and the changes yet to come. Presented by Mark Morton, our Technical Lecturer and Consultant, and Helen Knight, our Tax Senior Manager.For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

Happy New Year! In this episode Norman Allison looks at the  IR35 opportunity to pause settlement, digital signatures, S455 L2P forms, CGT property returns, IR35 guidelines for compliance and BACS notifications.For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

Lee Eagling is joined by Jenny Faulkner to discuss the themes highlighted by Mercia's internal file review quality review checks and compare these to recent audit monitoring findings issues by the QAD. For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

Mark Morton's initial reaction to the Autumn Statement 2023. For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

Lee Eagling discusses recent audit sanctions and how findings from these cases link to audit quality issues we find in our file reviews. For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

Mark Morton takes a look at the approach which the Tribunal is taking on domicile in recent cases.For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.